Lauryn Hill Addresses Robert Glasper’s “Stolen” Music Accusations in New Essay

“I’m confused as to why such a principled musician, who thought I ‘stole’ from his friends, would show up to work for me anyway”

Lauryn Hill, photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Lauryn Hill has shared a new essay on Medium.com addressing the recent accusations of jazz pianist and producer Robert Glasper. In an interview, Glasper called her out for “stealing music,” allegedly cutting her touring band members’ pay at whim, allegedly firing musicians shortly before shows, and more surrounding the recording and touring of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. In the essay, Hill explained her process behind the record in bullet points. “I’m confused as to why such a principled musician, who thought I ‘stole’ from his friends, would show up to work for me anyway,” she said regarding Glasper.

Hill also claimed she “may not have established the necessary boundaries” for working with musicians outside of the Fugees, and that she has no “details or recollection” of cutting band’s pay. “No matter how incredible the musicians who play with me are, MY name is on the marquee,” she continued. “The expectation to make it all come together is on me. The risk and the financial losses are on me. Hence, MY VIBE, though not the only consideration, is the priority.” Read the full essay here.

Hill also addressed her stance on racial injustice, her personal struggles around the time of her MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 album, and her live performances. The 20th anniversary tour behind Miseducation saw a string of postponed dates, but will be resume next month as planned.